Westmoreland County Department of Human Services

09/10/2026

Learn About PA ABLE

Are you interested in learning how individuals with disabilities can save for disability-related expenses while maintaining important benefits?

The PA ABLE Savings Program provides eligible individuals with disabilities, a tax-free way to save for a wide range of disability-related expenses.

Join the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services for an upcoming webinar covering topics including:

• Eligibility requirements for opening a PA ABLE account
• Federal and state tax benefits
• How PA ABLE interacts with important benefits

📅 Wednesday, September 16, 2026
⏰ 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
💻 Virtual Webinar
👥 Open to all interested stakeholders

For accommodations to participate in the webinar, contact [email protected].

🔗 Learn more and register:
40409933-c0f2-4230-a8a0-f5a8c4462954@aff0f5b6-7ab3-4f66-b46c-0b7d250ad998" rel="ugc" target="_blank">https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/40409933-c0f2-4230-a8a0-f5a8c4462954@aff0f5b6-7ab3-4f66-b46c-0b7d250ad998

Please note: This training is offered through the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services and is not a Westmoreland County DHS hosted training.

09/09/2026

Did you know that September is Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Awareness Month?

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) are a group of conditions that can occur when a person is exposed to alcohol before birth. FASD can affect a person’s development, learning, behavior, communication, and other areas of daily life. FASD is completely preventable by avoiding alcohol during pregnancy.

Throughout September, the Westmoreland Drug and Alcohol Commission will be hosting FASD Awareness Month pop-up events throughout Westmoreland County to provide education, raise awareness, and connect community members with resources.

Free onesies, T-shirts, diapers, and wipes will be available at each event while supplies last.

Join us at one of the following locations:

September 9: SPHS Family Health Complex in Monessen
https://maps.app.goo.gl/xztaMT6NHRENB5q86

September 10: Lost Dreams Awakening in New Kensington
https://maps.app.goo.gl/Y9udWHj37UoPzXWj8

September 17: Courthouse Square in Greensburg[JB7.1][SB7.2]
https://maps.app.goo.gl/ULA3P8nLr2a7zJSc9

These events are an opportunity to learn more about FASD, the importance of preventing prenatal alcohol exposure, and resources available to families and community members.

Help us spread awareness throughout September and support healthier outcomes for children and families in our community.

For additional event information, please see the flyer.

09/05/2026

Important Medicaid Changes Are Coming in 2027

Changes are coming to Medicaid, also known as Medical Assistance in Pennsylvania, beginning January 1, 2027.

Some Medicaid applicants and recipients may be affected by new requirements, including:

• Renewing Medicaid every six months instead of annually for some adults ages 19–64
• New work requirements for some adults ages 19–64 who do not have a dependent child under age 14

📬 If you currently receive Medicaid, make sure your contact information is up to date so you receive important information about your benefits and any steps you may need to take.

⚠️ Please Note: These Medicaid changes are being implemented by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (PA DHS) and are not a Westmoreland County Department of Human Services program or policy.

If you have any questions regarding these changes including most recent information, requirements, exemptions, and updates, visit:

🔗 PA DHS – Changes Coming to Medicaid in Pennsylvania

OR Call the HR1 FAQ line at 1-877-883-6383

09/04/2026

Happier Birthdays Happen Here — and You’re Invited!

September is National Senior Center Month, and Westmoreland County’s Centers for Active Adults are celebrating with special “Happier Birthdays Happen Here” parties throughout the county!

Westmoreland County’s 13 Centers for Active Adults provide opportunities for older adults to stay active, build friendships, learn new skills, and connect with their communities. From fitness and wellness programs to crafts, book clubs, educational programs, social activities, and more, there’s something for everyone.

Because happier birthdays are about more than candles and cake — they’re about connection, purpose, support, and community.

🎂 Come celebrate with us and discover what your local Center for Active Adults has to offer!

View participating locations, party dates, times, and additional information here:

https://www.westmorelandcountypa.gov/2849/National-Senior-Center-Month

09/03/2026

The Westmoreland County Area Agency on Aging invites you to a FREE Health and Education Expo at Westmoreland Mall!

Come explore valuable information, services, and resources available to help support health, safety, independence, and quality of life.

📅 Wednesday, September 23, 2026
⏰ 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
📍 Westmoreland Mall – Center Court
5256 US-30, Greensburg, PA 15601
🎟️ Free Admission

Attendees can find information and resources related to health and wellness, community support services, benefits and insurance, transportation and housing, safety and fall prevention, and more. Plus, there will be giveaways!

🔗 Learn more: https://www.westmorelandcountypa.gov/2773/Health-Education-Expo

We hope to see you there!

09/02/2026

💙 Caregivers Supporting Caregivers

Caring for someone can be rewarding, but it can also come with challenges. The Westmoreland County Area Agency on Aging Caregiver Support Group provides a welcoming place for caregivers to connect, discuss concerns, share experiences, and receive support and guidance from others.

Guest speakers may also join the group on occasion to provide insight into specific caregiving needs.

📅 2nd Wednesday of each month
⏰ 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
📍 McKenna Center for Active Adults
971 Old Salem Rd., Greensburg, PA 15601

All caregivers are welcome!

For more information, contact Gregory Reitler at 724-830-4444 or visit the Westmoreland County Department of Human Services website:

🔗 https://www.westmorelandcountypa.gov/2270/Caregiver-Support-Group-Meetings

The Westmoreland County Area Agency on Aging extends an invitation to attend our monthly Caregiver Support Group Meeting. This support group provides an opportunity for caregivers to discuss their concerns, share their experiences and gain support and information from other caregivers.

09/01/2026

September is National Recovery Month!

Each September, we recognize National Recovery Month — a time to honor the strength and resilience of individuals in recovery and to raise awareness about mental health and substance use disorders.

Recovery is possible. Every day, millions of Americans are living proof that prevention works, treatment is effective, and people do recover. This month, we celebrate those on their recovery journey, support those still struggling, and express our gratitude to the families, professionals, and communities who walk alongside them.

If you or someone you know is in need of support, help is available:

PA Drug and Alcohol Hotline
1 (800) 662-HELP (4357)

Local Recovery Community Organizations:
Sage’s Army- 6044 Lincoln Hwy, Greensburg
724-863-5433 (24/7 Helpline)

Lost Dreams Awakening- 408 8th St. New Kensington
724-212-7899
https://recoverysupportservices.net/connect-to-lda (Online Form to Request Services)

09/01/2026

Did you know that September is Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Awareness Month?

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) are a group of conditions that can occur when a person is exposed to alcohol before birth. FASD can affect a person’s development, learning, behavior, communication, and other areas of daily life. FASD is completely preventable by avoiding alcohol during pregnancy.

Throughout September, the Westmoreland Drug and Alcohol Commission will be hosting FASD Awareness Month pop-up events throughout Westmoreland County to provide education, raise awareness, and connect community members with resources.

Free onesies, T-shirts, diapers, and wipes will be available at each event while supplies last.

Join us at one of the following locations:

September 9: SPHS Family Health Complex in Monessen
https://maps.app.goo.gl/xztaMT6NHRENB5q86

September 10: Lost Dreams Awakening in New Kensington
https://maps.app.goo.gl/Y9udWHj37UoPzXWj8

September 17: Courthouse Square in Greensburg[JB7.1][SB7.2]
https://maps.app.goo.gl/ULA3P8nLr2a7zJSc9


These events are an opportunity to learn more about FASD, the importance of preventing prenatal alcohol exposure, and resources available to families and community members.

Help us spread awareness throughout September and support healthier outcomes for children and families in our community.

For additional event information, please see the flyer.

08/31/2026

August 31st is International Overdose Awareness Day.

In 2025, we lost 72 lives to overdose in Westmoreland County. Behind every number is a person with a story, loved ones who miss them, and a community that feels the impact of their loss. Even one life lost is one too many.

Today, we honor and remember the lives lost to overdose and stand with the families, friends, and communities who continue to carry that loss. International Overdose Awareness Day provides an opportunity to reflect on the impact of overdose, raise awareness, reduce stigma, and remind others that support, compassion, and resources are available.

While we remember those we have lost, we also recognize the importance of continuing efforts to prevent overdose deaths and support individuals affected by substance use. Through education, connection, and access to resources, we can work together to create a community where people feel supported and empowered to seek help.

Today, we remember those we have lost, support those who are struggling, and continue working toward a future where fewer lives are lost to overdose.

08/30/2026

The Westmoreland County Homeless Advisory Board (WestCoHAB) brings together community partners, service providers, local organizations, and people with lived experience to work collaboratively toward preventing homelessness in Westmoreland County.

The Homeless Advisory Board meets the first Wednesday of every month, and the public is welcome to attend. Meetings provide an opportunity to hear updates from local partners and discuss recommendations on addressing homelessness with a focus on prevention, intervention, and long-term solutions.

When: First Wednesday of every month at 9AM
In person: Westmoreland Intermediate Unit, Fort Ligonier Room, 102 Equity Drive, Greensburg, PA 15601

Virtual: Meeting links are available on our website.

For more information, including the meeting calendar, virtual meeting links, and information about our subcommittees, visit our website: https://www.westmorelandcountypa.gov/3265/Westmoreland-County-Homeless-Advisory-Bo

We invite community members to get involved and help us continue working toward a stronger, more coordinated response to homelessness in Westmoreland County. 🤝